Abstract Glass-ionomer cements offer unique qualities, including bulk insertion, chemical adhesion to tooth tissues, fluoride release, as well as recharge . This study aimed to assess the effect of addition of eucalyptus extract-loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticles (EE@MSNs) to high-viscosity glass-ionomer cement HVGIC on its mechanical properties, antimicrobial activity, and fluoride release. EE@MSNs were prepared and characterized. Then, they were added to HVGIC Fuji IX at weight percentages of 1%, 3%, and 5% to create three experimental groups which were compared with the unmodified control group. Compressive strength, Vickers microhardness, and antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus mutans were evaluated. Fluoride release was assessed after 24 h and 7 days. HVGIC modified by 1% and 3% EE@MSNs recorded significant improvement in compressive strength and Vickers microhardness compared to control groups. While higher ratio 5% showed decline in the mechanical properties. Experimental groups recorded significant increase in antibacterial activity and fluoride release when compared to control group and this increase was proportional to EE@MSNs percentage. Addition of 1 and 3 wt.% EE@MSNs could be considered a promising approach to modify properties of HVGICs.
Sheta et al. (Tue,) studied this question.